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Yvonne Jones, Opposition Status of Women Critic and MHA for the District of
Cartwright-L’Anse au Clair, says the recent cutbacks to women’s groups and
programs is a regressive step that once again demonstrates a lack of
commitment to minority and equality issues by the Harper Government.
Earlier this week, the Federal Conservative government unveiled $1 billion
in spending cuts to take place over two years and announced that another $1
billion will be extracted through unspecified management measures over the
same period. Included in these cuts was a $5 million reduction to the Status
of Women and cuts to funding for literacy groups that helped people with
learning disabilities.
"We continuously see examples from this federal government that they are
not committed to minority and equality rights in this country," said Ms.
Jones. "We have already witnessed the cancellation of the Kelowna Accord
that would have benefitted aboriginal Canadians, now we see cuts to programs
for women and those who require help dealing with learning disabilities.
"The Status of Women groups across this country are the strongest
advocates for women’s issues. By cancelling funding, the federal government
is indicating their lack of support for equality rights for women. This is
totally unacceptable and should be reconsidered immediately.
"I also feel that those with learning disabilities will suffer as a
result of these cuts. While the rights and needs of these individuals often
go unnoticed, program funding has allowed them to address their issues and
look to improve their lives.
"I am calling upon Premier Williams, Minister Joan Burke, Minister Loyola
Hearn, and our federal Members of Parliament to lobby against these cuts.
These programs are absolutely necessary and these cutbacks will do nothing
to improve the rights of all Canadians."
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